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Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), a global non-profit providing essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families and promote healing when children need healthcare, announces the appointment of Alex Dimitrief as the new global Chair of the Board of Trustees. In addition to the appointment of Alex Dimitrief, RMHC announces Woods Staton and Russ Smyth to the Board of Trustees.
In 2024, RMHC celebrated the 50th anniversary of the first Ronald McDonald House in Philadelphia. Since 1974, RMHC has cared for tens of millions of families with children who are ill or injured and the organization is focused on doubling the number of families served globally by 2030.
“On behalf of RMHC, we’re thrilled to appoint Alex Dimitrief as the new global Board Chair and welcome Woods Staton and Russ Smyth to the RMHC Board of Trustees,” said Katie Fitzgerald, RMHC Global President and Chief Executive Officer. “Their leadership and experience will be essential as the organization works toward our vision of a world where every family has what they need to ensure the best health outcomes for their children.”
Since 2017, Dimitrief has been a valued member of the RMHC Board of Trustees, lending his expertise in support of the organization’s mission. In addition to his work with RMHC, Dimitrief is the Senior Vice President and General Counsel of Sotera Health Company. Previously, Dimitrief served as the President and CEO of General Electric’s Global Growth Organization.
Staton is the Executive Chairman of Arcos Dorados. He founded Arcos Dorados in 2007 and previously served as the Chairman and CEO of Arcos Dorados from 2007 through 2015. Prior to this, Staton opened the first McDonald’s restaurant in Argentina in 1986 and later served as President of McDonald’s South Latin American Division. Throughout his career, Staton has been an avid supporter of RMHC. He is the founder and current board member of RMHC Argentina, helped establish the first Ronald McDonald Care Mobile program outside the US, as well as supported the openings of RMHC Ecuador, RMHC Curacao and RMHC Peru and Uruguay.
Smyth serves as the Chairman and General Partner of HAVI, leading the company’s key strategy, investment and talent decisions, as well as key customer relationships. Previously, he served as CEO of HAVI for nine years before he and five members of senior management purchased the business. HAVI is a longtime supporter of RMHC and key member of the RMHC Global Giving Collective. Smyth has also held roles as the President and CEO of H&R Block and President of McDonald’s Europe.
About RMHC
Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®), is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) corporation that cares for families when they have children who are ill or injured. Through a global network of over 255 Chapters in 62 countries and regions, RMHC provides essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, and promote healing when children need healthcare. RMHC programs and services help families have what they need to ensure the best health outcomes for their children. For more information, visit RMHC.org.
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